Things To Do
in Telavi
Telavi is the capital of Georgia's Kakheti region, perched in the lush Alazani Valley and surrounded by rolling vineyard-covered hills. It serves as a gateway to Kakheti's renowned wine country, with ancient fortresses, monasteries, and welcoming cellars nearby. The town offers a relaxed, hospitable atmosphere and a chance to experience rural Georgian life at a comfortable pace.
In Telavi you can taste traditional Kakhetian cuisine, learn about winemaking, and explore both historic sites and scenic countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the ancient fortress of Batonis Tsikhe, where you can take in panoramic views of the Alazani Valley. This historical site provides insight into the political and cultural significance of Telavi through the ages. Don't forget to wander through the nearby gardens and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local cafe.
In the afternoon, head to the Telavi Wine Cellar, where you can learn about the local winemaking process and sample some renowned Georgian wines. Enjoy a traditional lunch at a winery restaurant, savoring local dishes paired with exquisite wines. Spend your afternoon winding through the charming streets of Telavi, taking in the vibrant architecture and local handicrafts.
As evening falls, dine at a traditional Georgian restaurant, where you can experience the famous supra feast, complete with toasts led by a tamada. After dinner, stroll through the town's illuminated streets, enjoying the lively atmosphere. Wrap up your day with a nightcap at a local wine bar, soaking in the ambiance of Telavi.
Begin your morning with a visit to the Telavi Museum, where you can delve into the rich cultural history of the region. Engage with the art and artifacts on display that highlight the traditions and history of the Kakheti region. Afterward, grab a light breakfast at a nearby bakery known for its delicious khachapuri.
In the afternoon, take a scenic drive to the nearby village of Tsinandali, home to the historic estate of the Chavchavadze family. Explore the beautiful gardens and sample wines from their famed vineyard. Return to Telavi and take a leisurely walk through the local market to immerse yourself in the daily life of the city.
For dinner, choose a popular spot that serves local dishes, and indulge in the flavors of Kakhetian cuisine. Attend a folk music performance or dance show, where you can experience the vibrant culture of Georgia. End your night with a relaxing walk under the stars through the historic streets of Telavi.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🍷Glass of wine | $3-5 |
| 🏨Hotel room (mid-range) | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich wine culture and scenic Kakheti countryside
- Compact, walkable town center with easy access to winery day trips
- Welcoming locals and a tradition of hospitality
- Affordable food and lodging relative to many European destinations
- Limited nightlife and fewer large-scale entertainment venues
- English may be less common outside the main tourist spots
- Rural driving can be slow and roads may be winding in winter
- Some attractions are best reached by car or organized tours
- "Gamarjoba" - Hello
- "Madloba" - Thank you
- "Nakhvamdis" - Excuse me / Pardon me
Places to Visit in Telavi
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic hilltop fortress offering sweeping views over the Alazani Valley and Telavi rooftops, ideal for sunsets and landscape photography.
Ancient monastery ruins set in forested hills, providing atmospheric light and quiet backdrops for photos.
Colorful timber balconies, stone streets, and traditional architecture that make charming street photography subjects.
Rows of vines rolling toward the river with warm late-afternoon light for classic winery landscape images.
Food in Telavi
Telavi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cheese-filled bread, a Georgian staple best enjoyed warm from a bakery or a traditional restaurant.
Must-Try!
Juicy dumplings seasoned with black pepper and herbs, typically enjoyed hot with a sprinkle of coriander.
Vegetable purée balls (spinach, beet, or walnut) often served as cold appetizers.
Nuts threaded on a string and coated with grape must, a popular sweet sold in markets and shops.
Chilled poultry in a walnut sauce, a traditional winter dish that is also found in Kakheti during celebrations.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market where you can taste churchkhela, nuts, fruit, dairy, and fresh produce.
Casual stalls around the town square offering grilled meats, bread, and simple local treats.
Small-cellar yards with tastings and light snacks, ideal to pair with a glass of wine.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Georgian hospitality is warm; greet with a polite nod or handshake and address people respectfully. Participating in local toasts during meals is common.
Smart casual is appropriate for most restaurants; in churches and monasteries, modest dress is recommended.
Safety
Tipping in Telavi
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, a tip of around 5-10% is appreciated if not included in the bill. Small tips to guides, drivers, and staff are common for good service.
Cash is widely accepted in markets and smaller eateries. Credit and debit cards are increasingly accepted in towns and wineries, but carrying some cash is wise for rural or market purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, flowering vines, and fewer crowds. Great for outdoor walks and market visits.
Warm to hot days with frequent sunshine. Perfect for vineyard tours, outdoor tastings, and scenic day trips.
Harvest season with vibrant foliage and abundant grapes. Ideal for wine tastings and scenic drives through the countryside.
Cool to cold with occasional rain or frost. Some rural roads may be slower; indoor wine cellars offer cozy experiences.
Telavi at Night
Hiking in Telavi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic hiking routes along the Gombori mountain range with panoramic views of the Alazani Valley.
A forested loop near Shuamta Monastery suitable for a half-day hike and photo opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Telavi by plane.
Main international gateway to Georgia; about 2-2.5 hours by road from Telavi.
Western Georgia gateway with occasional international flights; longer drive to Kakheti.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Georgian-speaking residents with strong hospitality traditions.
Seasonal and year-round workers in Kakheti’s vineyards and cellars.
Domestic and international visitors drawn to wine, history, and landscape.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely watched and played at local clubs and schools; a common pastime in towns across Kakheti.
Popular outdoor activities in the Kakheti countryside, with several equestrian centers and quiet rural roads.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Telavi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy fresh vegetables, pkhali, salads, and cheese breads; many places offer vegetable stews and eggplant dishes, though meat-based fare is common. It helps to ask for mushroom or bean dishes and to request olive oil as a dressing.